The underside of soapy foam that appears on food during cooking

Cooking is a fusion of art and science. Getting the right taste and aroma is indeed an art, but the process of cooking food is pure science. Also, from a scientific point of view, some foods leave a soap-like foam when cooked and are not safe for human consumption. Scroll down to read more.

(Image: istock)

What are those soapy bubbles on food?

Cooking lentils in an open pan often leaves a soapy, foamy residue on the surface when it boils, but they’re bad for your health, if experts believe. so it should be removed. (Image: istock)

Also read: Why you need to soak lentils in water before cooking​

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What does the foam contain?

According to one theory, saponins are the foam that forms when lentils are cooked. Online reports indicate that lentils contain glycosides called saponins, which dissolve on contact with water, and that these saponins have soap-like properties, trapping air and forming bubbles when boiled. known to form. . (Image: istock)

What more?

Another theory says that the proteins in lentils are released when they are boiled. Particles of air, which hold more dissolved gases than hot water, leach out and form bubbles on the surface, a process called protein denaturation. (Image: istock)

Harmful?

Yes, the glycosides in lentils are harmful due to their damaged natural structure, and consuming substances with damaged natural structures can be harmful. Therefore, it is recommended to remove the surface foam before eating. (Image: istock)

How to remove foam

Experts say lentils should be cooked in an open container, not in a pressure cooker. That way, when the lentils boil and a foamy substance comes to the top, you can use a spoon, ladle, or it to remove it. tea stain. (Image: istock)

Is it the same one that came out while boiling the chicken?

The soapy foam that forms when boiling chicken is called aku. This is an impurity and consists of coagulated proteins that come from the meat left on the bones. And while this is by no means harmful, rather food protein, experts say, it contains other impurities such as fat and small bone fragments that can affect the texture, appearance and taste of meat. There is a possibility. (Image: istock)

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